What should a dental professional do if they notice an abrasion or lesion on the patient's tooth surface?

When a dental professional observes an abrasion or lesion on a patient's tooth surface, documenting the findings and referring the patient to a dentist is the appropriate course of action. This approach is essential because such conditions can indicate underlying issues that require further evaluation by a licensed dentist.

By documenting the observation, the dental professional ensures that there is a record of the finding, which can be valuable for ongoing patient care and for any future assessments. Referring the patient to a dentist is critical, as only a dentist has the authority to diagnose and provide appropriate treatment for dental conditions. Attempting to treat the lesion or abrasion themselves without proper training and authorization could lead to complications or mismanagement of the dental issue. Ignoring the lesion, especially in the absence of pain, is also not advisable, as many dental problems can be asymptomatic in their early stages. Therefore, referring the patient ensures they receive the necessary expertise for their condition.